Parents' travel stresses revealed

Many parents find disturbing other people is one of the most stressful parts of a trip, study says

A survey has revealed that nearly a third of parents think that their children disturbing other travellers is one of the most stressful parts of a trip overseas.

According to the research by Gatwick Airport, 30% of mothers and fathers are worried about bothering fellow travellers, with 19% of them saying that they try to stay away from busier sections of airports with their children.

Some 54% of the parents feeling guilty when their child cries loudly or misbehaves in front of others. Travellers can help reduce the stresses involved in heading overseas by taking an adequate
travel insurance.

The survey, which polled 1,000 parents in the UK, highlighted the difficulties parents encounter when heading for an overseas trip.

Struggling with baggage (36%), not finding enough toys to keep children entertained (27%) and the journey home from the airport (10%) are some of the sources of stress.

Becky Wiggins, author of parenting blog English Mum comments: "Family holidays are supposed to give parents a chance to spend fun and quality time with their children but, as this survey shows, worries can often get in the way."